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Published on: March 3, 2023
In vitro activity of essential oils against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from infected hip implants
Veronica Amorese1, Matthew Donadu2, Donatella Usai3
1University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy. veronica.amorese@gmail.com.
Introduction:
Essential oils have been used since ancient times and are known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-depressive, antiseptic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
Methodology:
in this study the antimicrobial activity of two essential oils from Melaleuca alternifolia and Thymus vulgaris-red thyme geraniol was tested against 16 multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa strains from infected hip implants as well as the "in vitro" cytotoxic activity on normal human Wong-Kilbourne derivative (WKD) cells.
Results:
Thymus vulgaris-red thyme geraniol showed lower antimicrobial activity when compared to Melaleuca alternifolia. All tested oils were cytotoxic at concentrations lower than 0.12%.
Conclusion:
Increase in drug resistance and lack of new antibiotics may encourage the development of natural treatments together with higher concern on environmental issues and natural lifestyle.
Insights
Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil demonstrated superior antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to red thyme geraniol. Both oils exhibited cytotoxicity at low concentrations, highlighting potential therapeutic applications and safety considerations.
Area of Science:
- Natural Products Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Essential oils possess diverse medicinal properties, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Increasing antibiotic resistance necessitates exploration of alternative therapeutic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of Melaleuca alternifolia and Thymus vulgaris-red thyme geraniol essential oils.
- To assess the in vitro cytotoxic effects of these essential oils on human cells.
Main Methods:
- Antimicrobial activity testing against 16 multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains.
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays using normal human Wong-Kilbourne derivative (WKD) cells.
Main Results:
- Melaleuca alternifolia showed greater antimicrobial activity than Thymus vulgaris-red thyme geraniol.
- Both essential oils demonstrated cytotoxicity at concentrations below 0.12%.
Conclusions:
- Essential oils offer potential as natural treatments against multidrug-resistant bacteria.
- Cytotoxicity of essential oils requires careful consideration for therapeutic development.
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